National Park Foundation - North Country National Scenic Trailhttp://www.nationalparks.org/park/north-country-national-scenic-trail
en3 Reasons Our 2015 Expedition Is Really Excitinghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/3-reasons-our-2015-expedition-really-exciting
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Alanna Sobel</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><div> </div>
<div>The truth is that there are many more than three reasons, but these will give you a glimpse into why the National Park Foundation’s 2015 Find Your Park Expedition is such an incredible program. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/FYPx_page_header(1).jpg" style="font-size: 13.0080003738403px; line-height: 20.0063037872314px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 186px;" /></div>
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<div>Before I share them, however, let me tell you a bit about this year’s opportunity of a lifetime. An expanded take on our previously known American Latino Expedition, our 2015 expedition will celebrate the <a href="http://www.findyourpark.com/" target="_blank">Find Your Park/Encuentra Tu Parque</a> movement by bringing eight lucky individuals on an unforgettable journey to <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/mesa-verde-national-park">Mesa Verde National Park</a> October 10 - 17, 2015.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Mesa Verde NP, Share the Experience photo contest, Pam Sorge" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Mesa-Verde-NP-Share-the-Experience-photo-contest-Pam-Sorge.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 334px;" /></div>
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<div>You’re probably asking yourself, who are these fortunate eight? They will be millennial online influencers and social media superstars who have a unique story to tell, are open-minded and eager to learn, and love sharing their experiences with others. (And yes, they’re probably all about the selfies too.) By taking online influencers to national parks, we’ll bring the parks to people everywhere!</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Mesa Verde NP, Share the Experience photo contest, Holly Neill" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Mesa-Verde-NP-Share-the-Experience-photo-contest-Holly-Neill.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 462px;" /></div>
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<div>I’m sure your next question is about what they’ll be doing on the expedition. Well, you’ll just have to head on over to the <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/find-your-park-expedition" target="_blank">expedition main page</a> to get the scoop on that. </div>
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<div>Now, back to those three reasons. </div>
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<div>Here’s what people are saying:</div>
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<div><em>"We are thrilled to once again support the National Park Foundation and outfit members of #FYPx for this trip-of-a-lifetime. Park units like Mesa Verde National Park offer rich cultural history and impressive recreation opportunities. With great REI gear and clothing, they will experience deeper adventures in the parks."</em></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">- Myrian Solis Coronel, manager of multicultural marketing at REI</div>
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<div><em>“We’re honored to again partner with the National Park Foundation in new and innovative ways to introduce and encourage people to visit and explore America’s parks. We look forward to welcoming the winners to Far View Lodge and Mesa Verde National Park in October, where they will experience the adventure of a lifetime.”</em></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">- Bruce W. Fears, president of Aramark’s Leisure division</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Far View Lodge, Yvonne Condes" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Far-View-Lodge-Yvonne-Condes.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 333px;" /></div>
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<div><em>“It’s been said that the evolving digital world has reduced our appreciation of nature and the outdoors. The National Park Foundation’s 2015 expedition will demonstrate the opposite as eight incredible digital influencers use their networks to share their adventures and inspire people everywhere to find their park.”</em></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">- Scott Welch, global corporate relations manager at Columbia Sportswear Company</div>
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<div>We couldn’t agree more with Myrian, Bruce, and Scott. Our 2015 Find Your Park Expedition is going to be absolutely incredible and we want all of you to be a part of it. </div>
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<div><a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/find-your-park-expedition">Apply here</a> today and join in the fun by following #FYPx on social media!</div>
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<div><span style="font-size:11px;"><em>Photo credits: Far View Lodge: 2013 American Latino Expedition/Yvonne Condes; Mesa Verde National Park: Share the Experience photo contest/Pam Sorge and Share the Experience photo contest/Holly Neill</em></span></div>
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</div></div></div>Thu, 23 Jul 2015 13:04:13 +0000NPF Admin20270 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/3-reasons-our-2015-expedition-really-exciting#commentsCelebrating Volunteerism In Our National Parkshttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/celebrating-volunteerism-our-national-parks
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Stefanie Mathew</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p align="left">In June, the National Park Foundation was proud to partner with the National Park Service to honor an incredible group of national park supporters. Each year, nearly 250,000 volunteers provide invaluable support throughout the National Park System by donating their time, talent, and energy to America’s most treasured places.</p>
<p align="left">The George and Helen Hartzog Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service recognize the exemplary contributions of individuals of all ages and backgrounds who help strengthen our national parks across the country. I would like to tell you the story of one of these amazing volunteers.</p>
<p align="left">Thelma Johnson is 80 years old and she loves to wear pink. She has also donated over 2,000 hours of her own time to cook and serve meals to volunteers on the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/iatr/index.htm">Ice Age National Scenic Trail</a> in Wisconsin. These volunteers come together for up to five days of hard labor and camping out through the Mobile Skills Crew program, and for the past 12 years Thelma has been there to make sure these crews are well fed.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><img alt="Thelma Johnson, Ice Age National Scenic Trail" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Thelma_Johnson.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></em></p>
<p align="left">I was able to visit the Mobile Skills Crew in St. Croix, Wisconsin, to see these volunteers – and Thelma – in action. The crews were building brand new trails to connect the different sections of the Ice Age Trail throughout the state. They were digging in the dirt to pull up large, heavy rocks and constructing new boardwalks to make sure the trails were safe and enjoyable for hikers for years to come. This was really physical, hard work.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><img alt="Buiding the Boardwalk, Ice Age National Scenic Trail" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Building_the_Boardwalk.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></em></p>
<p align="left">Thelma and her crew were hard at work too, cooking up a comfort food feast for hundreds of volunteers. Everyone knew to stay out of Thelma’s kitchen tent, where she was clearly in charge, but she was also quick to come out to say hello and give her fellow volunteers big hugs. Even in the summer heat and severe thunderstorms, Thelma went out of her way to care for all of the people who were devoting their time to improve the trail. She is truly the heart of the Mobile Skills Crew and I am honored to have enjoyed her delicious meal.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><img alt="Thelma's cooking, Ice Age National Scenic Trail" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Ice_Age_Meal.JPG" style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></em></p>
<p align="left">Each of the 2014 Hartzog Award winners have their own incredible stories to tell, and you can learn more about these winners <a href="http://www.nps.gov/aboutus/hartzog-awards.htm" target="_blank">here</a>:</p>
<ul><li>Individual Volunteer Award – Tom Moberg, North Country National Scenic Trail</li>
<li>Youth Volunteer Award – Sterling Fisher, Great Smoky Mountains National Park</li>
<li>Enduring Service Award – Thelma Johnson, Ice Age National Scenic Trail</li>
<li>Youth Volunteer Group Award – Buena High School Environmental Club, Channel Islands National Park</li>
<li>Volunteer Group Award – Kennesaw Mountain Trail Club, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park</li>
<li>Park Volunteer Program Award – Big Bend National Park Volunteer Program</li>
</ul><p align="left">If you’d like to get involved, click <a href="http://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/volunteer.htm" target="_blank">here</a>. Find a national park near you and see what kind of volunteer opportunities are available! </p>
</div></div></div>Wed, 08 Jul 2015 16:18:19 +0000NPF Admin20223 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/celebrating-volunteerism-our-national-parks#commentsJune: In Case You Missed Ithttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/june-case-you-missed-it
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Blair Guild</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p align="left">June is one of the most exciting months of the year. The weather warms up, the kids get out of school, and, of course, summer starts! With all the excitement, it can be hard to keep up with everything that happens at the National Park Foundation.</p>
<p align="left">But don’t worry! We’ve got your recap for June, just in case you missed it:</p>
<p align="left"><strong>Trail Talkin’ on the Blog</strong><br />We know that summer brings some dog days with it. Thankfully, the national parks are full of refreshing <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/12-refreshing-ways-beat-heat-national-parks">ways to beat the heat</a>! Whether you want to take a dip, take a plunge, or take a stroll — the national parks have got you covered.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Crater Lake Swimming (STE Robert Sappington)" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Crater_Lake%20Swimming_%28STE_Robert_Sappington%29.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 250px;" /></p>
<p align="left">There’s also plenty to celebrate! If you missed Father’s Day and the different ways to <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/celebrating-fathers-day-your-national-parks">celebrate dad</a> in national parks, start planning for the Fourth of July with these <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/9-unforgettable-activities-enjoy-july-4-weekend">unforgettable activities</a>.</p>
<p align="left">We also spoke to <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/qa-national-park-photographer-andy-porter">photographer Andy Porter</a> about his passion for capturing national park moments and memories in his nature photography.</p>
<p align="left">And don’t forget to find your park! NPF staffer Stefanie Mathew <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/finding-my-park-rockies">found her park</a> in the Rockies by participating in the Student Conservation Association’s National Park Service Centennial Volunteer Ambassador orientation program.</p>
<p align="left"><strong>Travel Ideas</strong><br />Need a bucket-list-worthy adventure? Grand Canyon National Park’s <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/travel-ideas/happy-trails-grand-canyon-rim-rim-hike">rim-to-rim hike</a> might be perfect for you!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Grand Canyon Hiking (OARS) " src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Grand%20Canyon%20Hiking%20%28OARS%29%20Tw.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 250px;" /></p>
<p align="left"><strong>Hot Off the Press</strong><br />This month we were thrilled to announce <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/national-park-foundation-appoints-will-shafroth-president-and-ceo">our new president and CEO</a> Will Shafroth. We are so excited to see his passion for the national parks unfold here at the National Park Foundation. Welcome!</p>
<p align="left"><strong>Gettin’ Social With It</strong><br />On Facebook, we served you a daily dose of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark/posts/10153390815551941:0" target="_blank">natural wonders</a> from Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.</p>
<p align="left">And on Twitter everyone was talking about taking the <a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks/status/605526883174875137" target="_blank">west coast road trip</a> from our “4 Ultimate National Park Road Trips” infographic.</p>
<p align="left">For our Instagram fans (Insta-fans?!) we shared a gorgeous photo of <a href="https://instagram.com/p/4Z8VZAC3sr/?taken-by=goparks" target="_blank">Grand Teton National Park</a> that was all the rage.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Grand Teton National Park (STE Ling Ling)" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Grand%20Teton%20NP%20%28STE%20Ling%20Ling%29%20Tw.jpg" style="font-size: 13.0080003738403px; line-height: 20.0063037872314px; text-align: center; width: 500px; height: 250px;" /></p>
<p>What about you? Are you sharing shots of your favorite moments and memories in national parks with us online? We’re out and about, playing on the interwebs in all of the fun places! Join us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,<a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/goparks/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://goparks.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Tumblr</a>, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/NationalPark/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="https://plus.google.com/+NationalparksOrg/posts?hl=en" target="_blank">Google+</a>. We’d love to hear from you!</p>
</div></div></div>Tue, 30 Jun 2015 20:02:42 +0000NPF Admin20217 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/june-case-you-missed-it#commentsCelebrating Father’s Day in Your National Parkshttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/celebrating-fathers-day-your-national-parks
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p align="left">For many of us, our fathers are responsible for first introducing us to the wonders of the National Park System. They led us on hikes through jaw-dropping natural landscapes. They walked with us through the hallowed grounds of our nation’s battlefields. They taught us about the diversity of cultures that together create our national identity. </p>
<p align="left">They instilled in us a lifelong adoration and passion for all these special places have to offer.</p>
<p align="left">This Father’s Day, why not take the man responsible for this love back to where it all started? Make it a memorable day this year by inviting your father on a national park adventure. For ideas on how you can spend the day celebrating your old man, check out these <a href="http://findyourpark.com/news/a-national-park-trip-dad-will-never-forget" target="_blank">activities</a>.</p>
<p align="left">And while you’re out in the parks capturing the memories of the fun being had, be sure to share them online with us by tagging @GoParks and using the hashtags #FindYourPark and #EncuentraTuParque.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Celebrate Fathers Day in National Parks" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Fathers-Day-Blog-Collage.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 461px;" /></p>
<p><em style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.538em;">Photo credits: Amy Baron, Amy Sawyer Bleichner, Jeanne Boggs, Jordan Strauss, Joan Salerno Russo, Tarah Demant, Rocío Lower.</em></p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 18 Jun 2015 20:37:10 +0000NPF Admin20192 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/celebrating-fathers-day-your-national-parks#commentsMay: In Case You Missed Ithttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/may-case-you-missed-it
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Rocío Lower</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p>This month <em>may</em> have flown by (get it? snort!) and you <em>may</em> have missed something (see what we did there?). </p>
<p>So we’ve pulled together our BEST of MAY and shared it with you here!</p>
<p><strong>Trail Talkin’ on the Blog</strong><br />We kicked off the month by sharing ideas on how to <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/15-ways-observe-memorial-day-national-parks">observe Memorial Day</a> in national parks. The holiday came and went, but these special places stand protected so that we can remember the sacrifice of our fallen military men and women year-round!</p>
<p>Just in time for the first days of summer, we posted an infographic on ultimate <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/4-ultimate-national-park-road-trips-infographic">national park road trips</a>! Take a look, get inspired, and hit the road! </p>
<p>And this week, we shared a remarkable Q&amp;A with National Park Service employee Otis Halfmoon. He shared incredible stories from his 25-year career in the Service and emphasized the important role national parks play in telling the untold stories of all Americans, including the unique <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/qa-nps-american-indian-services-specialist-otis-halfmoon">contributions of American Indians</a> to American culture.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Otis%20Halfmoon%20(National%20Park%20Service).jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 420px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Hot Off the Press</strong><br />We proudly announced 37 grants, totaling $458,438, in support of the <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/national-park-foundation-grants-nearly-460000-connect-local-communities-parks">2015 Active Trails</a> program. The program focuses on getting people out and active in national parks by restoring, protecting, and/or creating land and water trails across the country! </p>
<p>We were also excited by the New York Times piece on our collaboration with the White House and National Park Service for the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/23/travel/free-passes-to-parks-for-fourth-graders.html?_r=1" target="_blank">Every Kid in a Park</a> initiative! Be sure to check it out and see how we’ll be welcoming fourth graders and their families into national parks next school year.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Students at Olympic National Park (Dawn Kish)" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Oylmpic-Dawn%20Kish.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 331px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Gettin’ Social with It</strong><br />On Facebook, our post about the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark/posts/10153271566656941:0" target="_blank">full moon</a> over Denali National Park and Preserve was all the rage!</p>
<p>But on Twitter, folks were really excited about our ultimate <a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks/status/601530665616695296" target="_blank">national park road trip</a> infographic.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="4 ultimate national park road trips infographic" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/4UltimateNationalParkRoadTrip-cropped.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 328px;" /></p>
<p>With all the excitement of summer and new adventures ahead of us, what we really want to know is: are you sharing your favorite moments and memories in national parks with us online? We’re out and about, playing on the interwebs in all of the fun places! Join us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,<a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/goparks/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://goparks.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Tumblr</a>, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/NationalPark/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="https://plus.google.com/+NationalparksOrg/posts?hl=en" target="_blank">Google+</a></p>
<p>We’d love to hear from you!</p>
</div></div></div>Fri, 29 May 2015 13:28:23 +0000NPF Admin20165 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/may-case-you-missed-it#comments4 Ultimate National Park Road Trips Infographichttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/4-ultimate-national-park-road-trips-infographic
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Alanna Sobel</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p>If you could go on a national park road trip, where would you go?</p>
<p>With more than 400 national parks and thousands of historic and recreational lands across the country, including natural, cultural, and urban treasures, there are endless opportunities to explore and find your own personal connections to parks.</p>
<p>In fact, you’re bound to discover that a park can be more than just a place. A park can be many different things to many different people. It can be a feeling of inspiration or a sense of community. You may even find that a National Park Service program helped preserve a special place in your community.</p>
<p>So, what are you waiting for?</p>
<p>Check out our new infographic and find your park!</p>
<p>If you’re looking for additional inspiration, check out FindYourPark.com. And then be sure to share your park stories <a href="http://findyourpark.com/share" target="_blank">here</a> and on social media using #FindYourPark.</p>
<p>Can’t wait to hear from you!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/4UltimateNationalParkRoadTrip2-c-v7-low.jpg"><img alt="" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/4UltimateNationalParkRoadTrip2-c-v7-low.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 3445px;" /></a></p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 18 May 2015 20:35:11 +0000Alex20156 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/4-ultimate-national-park-road-trips-infographic#commentsApril: In Case You Missed Ithttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/april-case-you-missed-it
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Rocío Lower</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p><img alt="" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/%23ICYMI_spotlight%281%29.jpg" style="width: 215px; height: 133px; float: left; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 5px;" /></p>
<p>If you spent the month enjoying spring in the great outdoors, you may have missed some exciting happenings around here!</p>
<p>Let’s revisit some of April’s news before we all go sprinting into May, shall we?</p>
<p><strong>Trail Talkin’ on the Blog</strong><br />In honor of <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/my-trio-mother-figures">Mother’s Day</a> (friendly reminder: it’s just around the corner, on May 10!), National Park Foundation staffer Liz Gustafson shared memories of enjoying national parks with her mom, aunt, and grandmother. Be sure to share your memories with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Tumblr using the #MacysLovesMom hashtag!</p>
<p>Ever consider how a park can <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/parks-morning">challenge you to grow</a>, be it physically or mentally? </p>
<p>Or how <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/reflections-flight-93-national-memorial">volunteering in parks</a> can leave its mark on you and future generations?</p>
<p><strong>Hot Off the Press</strong><br />We hit the road with a <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/national-park-service-and-national-park-foundation-launch-find-your-park-virtual">virtual tour</a> this month to take the #FindYourPark movement to the people! Have you uploaded your story on <a href="www./findyourpark.com" target="_blank">findyourpark.com</a> yet?</p>
<p>We also announced a unique partnership with Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/joseph-gordon-levitt%E2%80%99s-collaborative-production-company-hitrecord-celebrates">hitRECord</a>. He posted this awesome <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JoeGordonLevitt/videos/1001362339887430/?pnref=story">video</a> inviting park lovers to share their national park-inspired art. </p>
<p>And as the #FindYourPark movement took off, we posted nine great ways to take advantage of <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/find-your-park-during-national-park-week">National Park Week</a> to find your park.</p>
<p>We announced a three-year <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/national-park-foundation-and-disney-connect-500000-kids-national-park-experiences">collaboration with Disney</a> to get 500,000 kids into national parks by 2017.</p>
<p>And lastly, we were thrilled to share news of David Rubenstein’s $5.37M gift to restore the iconic <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-news/david-rubenstein-donate-537-million-national-park-foundation-restore-us-marine">U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Gettin’ Social with It</strong><br />This month, national park fans were all about celebrating John Muir!</p>
<p>On Facebook, the community engaged most with a post about <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark/photos/a.82322966940.77793.10524821940/10153249130436941/?type=1" target="_blank">Muir’s birthday</a>.</p>
<p>While on Twitter, fans enjoyed an iconic <a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks/status/591383807124709376" target="_blank">Muir quote</a> reminding us to enjoy a few dirt paths along the way.</p>
<p>And our Instagram followers enjoyed <a href="https://instagram.com/p/111Kt7i3kw/?taken-by=goparks" target="_blank">this</a> snapshot of the Colorado River from Grand Canyon’s South Kaibab Trail.</p>
<p>What about you? Are you sharing shots of your favorite moments and memories in national parks with us online? We’re out and about, playing on the interwebs in all of the fun places! Join us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/goparks/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://goparks.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Tumblr</a>, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/NationalPark/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="https://plus.google.com/+NationalparksOrg/posts?hl=en" target="_blank">Google+</a>. We’d love to hear from you!</p>
<p> </p>
</div></div></div>Thu, 30 Apr 2015 20:31:07 +0000NPF Admin20136 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/april-case-you-missed-it#commentsMy Trio Of Mother Figureshttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/my-trio-mother-figures
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Liz Gustafson</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p>I have a mother, grandmother, and aunt of uncommon strength and kindness, and all together they make up my family. Growing up, I spent nights with my mother chatting about our days and falling asleep in the nook of her back while watching 1950s syndicated comedies, doing homework and riding to school every day with my grandmother, and spending weeknight dinners and summer vacations with my aunt. These are my childhood memories and I will always cherish them.</p>
<p>My trio of mother figures may be somewhat unconventional, but I couldn’t imagine it any other way. It’s their quiet, unassuming strength that made me want for nothing during those years and is what reminds me to this very day how extraordinarily lucky I am. Thank you, my dear mothers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Liz%27s%20Mom%2C%20Aunt%20%26%20Grandmother%20Throwback.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 315px;" /></p>
<p>Like my family and quite possibly like yours, a park can come in many forms, all with different dispositions, histories, and hopes for the future. Yes, parks can be the sweeping natural vistas of places like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, and they can also be places that mark milestones like Women’s Rights National Historical Park and Pullman National Monument. A park can be many different things to many different people. Similar to my own story, parks can represent strength and diversity, and how we came to be who we are today.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Grand%20Canyon_Liz%20%26%20Mom.jpg" style="width: 357px; height: 500px;" /></p>
<p>I think there’s no better time than now, in the weeks leading up to Mother’s Day, to reflect on the pillars of strength that have made a positive impact on all of our lives and take part in the Macy’s Share Your Love, Thank-A-Mom campaign that kicks off on April 27. I know that I’ll be sharing my love for my trio of mother figures using the hashtag #MacysLovesMoms on Instagram, Twitter, and Tumblr, and I invite you to do the same! After all, for every memory you share using the hashtag, Macy’s will donate $3 (up to $400,000!) to mom-approved charities, including the National Park Foundation. This is definitely the type of love that just keeps on giving. For more information about this year’s campaign visit <a href="http://www.macys.com/macyslovesmoms" target="_blank">macys.com/macyslovesmoms</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Liz%20%26%20Mom%20Throwback.jpg" style="width: 383px; height: 500px;" /></p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 27 Apr 2015 19:07:44 +0000NPF Admin20119 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/my-trio-mother-figures#commentsMarch: In Case You Missed Ithttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/march-case-you-missed-it
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Alanna Sobel</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p><img alt="" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/%23ICYMI_spotlight%281%29.jpg" style="width: 215px; height: 133px; float: left; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 5px;" /></p>
<p>March has been such an exciting month, for so many reasons! We welcomed <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/spring-almost-here">spring</a>, interviewed a <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/qa-national-park-photographer-manish-mamtani">national park photographer</a>, kicked off <a href="http://www.findyourpark.com" target="_blank">Find Your Park</a>, and more!</p>
<p>Just in case you missed anything, here’s a look back at what we’ve been up to in March:</p>
<p><strong>Hot Off the Press</strong><br />We launched Find Your Park this week and everyone is talking about it! Check out what Centennial Ambassadors Bill Nye, Bella Thorne, Roselyn Sanchez, Terrence J. and Mary Lambert are saying <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/everyone-talking-about-find-your-park">here</a>, be sure to follow the hashtag #FindYourPark on social media, and share your park story at <a href="http://www.findyourpark.com/" target="_blank">FindYourPark.com</a>. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/NPF_FYP_launch.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 185px;" /></p>
<p><strong>Gettin’ Social with It</strong><br />We asked our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark/posts/10153153592171941" target="_blank">Facebook</a> community if anyone had visited any of the “places within places” highlighted in our <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/4-places-you-may-have-missed">4 Places You May Have Missed</a> blog post and hundreds of people responded and also shared their favorite “places within places.” Take a moment and check out the conversation, and maybe even share your favorites too!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Morning%20Glory%20Pool%20Yellowstone%20National%20Park%20(NPS).jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 330px;" /></p>
<p>What about you? Are you sharing shots of your favorite moments and memories in national parks with us online? We’re out and about, playing on the interwebs in all of the fun places! Join us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalpark" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GoParks" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/goparks" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="http://goparks.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Tumblr</a>, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/NationalPark/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="https://plus.google.com/+NationalparksOrg/posts" target="_blank">Google+</a> . We’d love to hear from you!</p>
<p><span style="font-size:11px;"><em>Photo credit: National Park Service</em></span></p>
</div></div></div>Tue, 31 Mar 2015 05:00:00 +0000admin20114 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/march-case-you-missed-it#commentsEveryone Is Talking About Find Your Parkhttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/everyone-talking-about-find-your-park
<div class="field field-name-field-blog-author field-type-text field-label-inline clearfix"><div class="field-label">By:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Alanna Sobel</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even" property="content:encoded"><p>
</p><p>From my neighbors, to my family and friends, to Centennial Ambassadors <strong>Bill Nye</strong>, <strong>Bella Thorne</strong>, <strong>Roselyn Sanchez</strong>, <strong>Terrence J.</strong> and <strong>Mary Lambert</strong>, everyone is talking about <a href="http://www.findyourpark.com/">Find Your Park</a> and sharing their park stories!</p>
<p>Here’s a glimpse into what people are saying:</p>
<p>“Science is the best idea humans ever had and our national parks, monuments, and historic sites are often called ‘America’s Best Idea.’ We need to preserve and protect them. Let’s work together to understand the impact of climate change on our parks and sites, so that we can enjoy them now and well into the future, beyond the centennial of the National Park Service.”</p>
<p>- Bill Nye</p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><img alt="Bill Nye" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Bill%20Nye.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 444px; " /></p>
<p>“I found my park practically in my backyard – at <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/santa-monica-mountains-national-recreation-area">Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area</a> with my sister. I hope that through Find Your Park, people my age will rediscover the national parks and be inspired to volunteer and truly understand the importance of preservation.”</p>
<p>- Bella Thorne</p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><img alt="Bella Thorne" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Bella%20Thorne.JPG" style="width: 319px; height: 480px; " /></p>
<p>“My husband and I were married at Castillo San Cristóbal, part of <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/san-juan-national-historic-site">San Juan National Historic Site</a> in my native Puerto Rico, and I have a deep connection to the national parks through my Hispanic community and heritage. I feel centered when I am in a national park, through hiking, biking, running and yoga, and I can’t wait to pass these memories on to my family.”</p>
<p>- Roselyn Sanchez</p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><img alt="Roselyn Sanchez" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Roselyn%20Sanchez-1.jpg" style="width: 337px; height: 480px; " /></p>
<p>“As a city kid, there was something truly magical about finding my park at <a href="http://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/yosemite-national-park">Yosemite National Park</a> which has a vastness and natural beauty I’ve never experienced before. It also inspired me to explore parks in urban areas that focus more on culture and history. National parks aren’t always the sprawling landscapes you normally think about… and many of them are closer than you think.”</p>
<p>- Terrence J.</p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><img alt="Terrence J." class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Terrence%20J.jpg" style="width: 353px; height: 480px; " /></p>
<p>“Parks can be much more than a place – they can foster a state of mind that inspires me to create some of my best poetry with those I love. And, they are also places that tell my story too. I’m grateful to the National Park Service for their efforts to tell a more inclusive story that commemorates the places and events that honor LGBT history.”</p>
<p>- Mary Lambert</p>
<p style="text-align: center; "><img alt="Mary Lambert" class="border" src="/sites/default/files/kcfinder/images/Mary%20Lambert.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 333px; " /></p>
<p>What is your park story? We’d love to hear from you! Check out <a href="http://www.findyourpark.com/" target="_blank">FindYourPark.com</a>, share your story, take the fun quiz, enter The Centennial Project, and inspire your friends and family to find their park too!</p>
</div></div></div>Mon, 30 Mar 2015 05:00:00 +0000admin20113 at http://www.nationalparks.orghttp://www.nationalparks.org/connect/blog/everyone-talking-about-find-your-park#comments